Nissan Navara
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a pickup truck that doesn’t compromise on comfort? The Nissan Navara might be exactly what you need. This versatile workhorse successfully bridges the gap between rugged commercial capability and car-like refinement, making it one of the most appealing choices in the pickup market. It’s the truck for people who want serious towing and hauling power without sacrificing everyday driving comfort.

From first glance, the Navara commands attention with its bold, muscular stance and distinctive front grille. Unlike many utilitarian pickups, it offers a genuinely impressive interior that rivals some SUVs for quality and technology. The cabin feels modern and well-appointed, with solid materials and intuitive controls that make daily use a pleasure. You get the sense this truck has been designed for people who spend serious time behind the wheel.

On the road, the Navara delivers a surprisingly refined driving experience. The engines provide strong pulling power for work duties while remaining smooth and quiet for family use. It handles confidently both on-road and off, giving you the versatility to tackle anything from school runs to weekend adventures. While it carries a premium price compared to basic commercial pickups, you’re investing in a vehicle that genuinely excels as both a capable work tool and a comfortable family transport.

What's the Nissan Navara Like to Drive?

The Nissan Navara is built around a robust 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that delivers impressive performance across the range. With power outputs from 160 to 190 horsepower depending on specification, there’s sufficient grunt for both loaded work duties and unladen highway cruising. The engine feels strong and willing, pulling cleanly from low revs with minimal turbo lag. This makes it excellent for towing, with a maximum capacity of 3,500kg when properly equipped.

Where the Navara really impresses is in its on-road manners. Unlike many pickup trucks that feel agricultural, this drives with genuine car-like refinement. The steering is accurate and well-weighted, while the coil-spring rear suspension provides a much more composed ride than traditional leaf-sprung setups. Off-road capability remains strong thanks to selectable four-wheel drive and decent ground clearance. Whether navigating city traffic or tackling challenging terrain, the Navara feels confident and capable in all conditions.

Inside the Nissan Navara: Comfort & Features

Step inside and the Navara immediately demonstrates its car-like aspirations. The dashboard is well-designed and logically laid out, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The materials feel solid and durable, with soft-touch surfaces where your hands naturally fall. Everything operates with a reassuring precision that reinforces the quality impression. Climate control is standard across the range, along with multiple USB ports for device charging.

The front seats offer excellent support and comfort, easily accommodating long journeys without fatigue. There’s generous adjustment range to help drivers of all sizes find their ideal position. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, creating a surprisingly peaceful cabin environment. The rear seats are spacious enough for adults, though they’re clearly designed more for occasional use or children. Higher specification models add leather upholstery, heated seats, and premium audio systems that further enhance the upmarket feel.

The Nissan Navara successfully achieves its goal of being the most car-like pickup truck available. It delivers impressive refinement and comfort without compromising the rugged capability that pickup buyers demand. The interior quality is genuinely impressive, the ride comfort is excellent for the class, and the diesel engine provides strong performance with reasonable economy. It’s a truck that makes no apologies for prioritising driver and passenger comfort.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Nissan Navara Expensive to Run?

As a commercial vehicle, the Navara benefits from attractive running costs for business users. The efficient diesel engines deliver real-world fuel economy in the mid-30s MPG range, which is competitive for such a large, capable vehicle. Road tax is reasonable, and insurance groups are moderate considering the truck’s size and value. For business users, the favourable taxation treatment of commercial vehicles can make the Navara particularly cost-effective.

The initial purchase price reflects the Navara’s premium positioning in the pickup market. You’ll pay more than for basic work trucks, but the additional refinement and equipment justify the premium. Residual values are strong thanks to the Navara’s excellent reputation and desirability. Servicing costs are reasonable for a commercial vehicle, though some maintenance items may be more expensive than passenger cars. Overall, the Navara represents solid value when you consider its dual-purpose capability and car finance options make ownership more accessible.

Nissan Navara Practicality & Boot Space

The Navara excels in practical capability, offering one of the largest load bays in its class. The rear bed measures over 1.5 metres long and can accommodate a full-size pallet with ease. Loading height is reasonable, and tie-down points are strategically placed for securing cargo. The tailgate is damped and robust, designed for heavy-duty use. With a payload capacity exceeding 1,000kg, it handles serious work duties without breaking stride.

For family use, the double-cab configuration provides genuine five-seat capability. The rear seats offer adequate space for children or occasional adult passengers, with reasonable legroom and headroom. Storage throughout the cabin is thoughtful, with large door pockets and a useful centre console. When you need maximum cargo space, the rear seats can accommodate longer items. Compared to other used Nissan cars, the Navara offers unmatched versatility for those needing both passenger and cargo capability in a single vehicle.

The Nissan Navara stands out in the competitive pickup truck market by offering genuine car-like refinement without sacrificing capability. It combines robust commercial vehicle strength with passenger car comfort and technology in a package that works brilliantly for dual-purpose users. The coil-spring rear suspension, quality interior, and refined driving experience set it apart from more utilitarian alternatives.

You choose the Navara because you refuse to compromise between capability and comfort. Its impressive towing capacity, generous payload, and excellent build quality make it ideal for work duties, while the refined ride and premium interior ensure family transport remains enjoyable. If you’re looking for a pickup that excels in both commercial and personal use, the Navara should be your first choice, with car finance options making it more accessible than ever.